The 2018 Niche Standout Colleges list recognizes colleges that are making a difference in college access by offering a quality education while serving a high percentage of typically underserved student populations. The ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with millions of reviews from students and alumni. The list is limited to only colleges with 1) at least 40% of students receiving Pell Grants and 2) a Niche Overall Grade of B or higher.Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

About This List

The 2018 Niche Standout Colleges list recognizes colleges that are making a difference in college access by offering a quality education while serving a high percentage of typically underserved student populations. The ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with millions of reviews from students and alumni. The list is limited to only colleges with 1) at least 40% of students receiving Pell Grants and 2) a Niche Overall Grade of B or higher.Read more on how this ranking was calculated.